Dec 21, 2021
You’ve probably been wondering how to take care of your newly acquired cast iron pan. After all, it’s a lot different from usual pans appearance-wise. So, taking care of it requires diligence to maintain it and keep its value.
So, how do you keep your cast iron pots and pans clean inside and out? In this AllHome article, we’ll discuss how to clean your cast-iron cookware, as well as how to care for it so you can get the most out of your investment!
A cast-iron skillet like AllHome’s SLIQUE Sizzling Skillet is a true workhorse in every kitchen because cast iron skillets are best known for their durability, reliability, and craftsmanship. However, it is not invincible. Incorrect maintenance can cause the enamel coating on your pots and pans to crack or peel away, making them useless. Moreover, reading the instruction manual and following the manufacturer’s basic recommendations are two of the best ways to maintain the beauty of your cast iron cookware for years to come.
Very little soap and water is a key factor when it comes to new and used skillets. This first wash gets rid of any factory residue or rust. Before using a cast iron for cooking, you should first wash it with hot water and dish soap because when a hot cast iron pot or skillet is struck with something cold, such as water, thermal shock can occur. This thermal shock can also occur in other manners like when you put an extremely cold glass into boiling water. After washing your skillet, wipe it dry with a towel or tissue. Then, place the skillet over a medium flame until it is completely dry. Allow it to cool before wiping it down again and putting it away.
A tip when cooking using your cast iron pan, preheat an empty pan on the lowest possible setting for 5 minutes before adding any ingredients. This method reduces the chance of searing or burning your dish. Always use oven mitts like Random Print Cork Coaster/Trivet Mitten Shape to hold your cast iron skillet because most handles do not have silicon or wood coverings.
Depending on the temperature you cook at, various foods are more or less prone to sticking to the pan. Cooking delicate products like eggs or fish should be avoided until your pan has been used at least 10 times. To add, when cooking a delicate fish in a cast-iron skillet over low heat, it must be swimming in butter if you want it to flip in one piece. If your skillet is hot enough, the fish will form a thin crust on its own within a minute or two, making flipping an easy task.
Also, do not cook with acidic foods for long periods of time. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar have the acidity that breaks down the coating you make in your cast iron cookware every time you use it. If you need to add a squeeze of citrus fruit at the end of your cooking process, that’s okay, but something like a slow-cooked tomato sauce would be better served in a pot or a saucepan.
When your cast iron skillet begins to cool, the worst thing you can do is immerse it in cold water. Heat stress can cause fractures or the loss of the surface coating. As a result, they are more likely to shatter in the future due to extreme heat.
Seasoning cast iron like LODGE 10.25 inch Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Pan is the process of baking successive layers of oil into the skillet to create a rust-resistant and non-stick surface. You need to re-season your cast iron pan whenever you use it. You don’t need to bake it or cook it on the stove like you did with the initial seasoning. You can just slowly pour a small amount of oil like flaxseed, canola, or avocado oil into the pan and wipe it with a paper towel or a reusable oil brush. With regular use and seasoning, the non-stickiness will improve over time.
When cooking with cast iron cookware, the most essential thing to remember is to never use metal utensils on the surface. Metal utensils can scratch and ruin the seasoning which can damage the pan. That is why it is recommended to use wooden or plastic utensils like nylon cooking utensils from AllHome.
On these beauties, you can’t just use any soap or scrubber! AllHome recommends using a Scotch Brite Delicate Care Scrub Sponge, warm water, and a light dishwashing product. Remember to clean all cast iron components, including handles, knobs, and lids. Scrub away any stuck-on food particles with a stiff brush until they’re gone, then thoroughly rinse with hot water. Once you’re done, this cookware will appear good as new! Don’t worry about destroying your cookware by manually cleaning it. The strong coating on these pots is meant to survive years of usage without cracking or flaking.
If you’re using cast iron to cook, please do not leave any cooked items in or around the skillet or pan for an extended period of time after removing them from the heat, it is considerably harder to clean baked-on proteins and starch once they’ve hardened into a crust than it is to clean them when they’re still soft and mushy. To remove food residue from a pan, you can try scrubbing the pan with a few tablespoons of rock salt and canola oil. Then, using a sponge or a dish brush, clean the residue away. Wipe it dry with a towel and dry it over low heat on a stovetop for good measure. To store your cast iron skillet, place a paper towel over your pan and proceed to stack it with other cookware.
Enjoy many years of cooking with your cast iron skillet. As long as you season and clean your cookware well, it can last you for a long time. Just exert a little amount of effort and patience by following our tips and you will get a lifetime use out of your beautiful cookware!
Want to learn more about kitchen tips? You can read more on our blog or watch our videos on our YouTube channel.
To shop for more kitchenware items, visit an AllHome store near you. We have a variety of items for you to choose from—DIY needs, hardware and construction supplies, home decor, and more! The AllHome online shopping site offers fast delivery, cash delivery, and easy payment terms. You may also follow us on our official Facebook page and Instagram accounts for more updates.
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